Waiver

Before entering the climbing area at ASCEND, all climbers and visitors must have a current Release of Liability Form (Waiver) signed and in our system. If you are 17 years of age or younger, your Waiver must be signed by a parent or documented legal guardian and you must be accompanied by a guardian on your first visit. The Waiver can be completed online ahead of time or during your first visit to the facility. You only have to do this once and this waiver applies to all ASCEND facilities!

If you haven't already, read up on how to create your new online account and get our new app HERE.

Otherwise, view the schedule and book classes and programs HERE.

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Getting Here
Parking

As part of our commitment to make your visits totally hassle-free, we offer free, on-site parking. No fighting for a space on the streets of the South Side of Pittsburgh. Just park out front and come on in. Check out a flyover view of the parking options and location of ASCEND Pittsburgh. Also, we encourage you to ride your bike! We have bike parking inside and out.

ASCEND Youngstown has ample free on-site parking!

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Rates

The rates below speak to both ASCEND South Side and ASCEND Youngstown.

Day Passes

A Day Pass at ASCEND includes unlimited climbing, use of our fitness equipment, and one class - yoga or fitness - which is obviously pretty awesome. Child pricing available for kids 13 and under, but excludes that one yoga and fitness class. If you are bringing a group of 5 or more kids, you must make a reservation, as ASCEND Coaches need to be present in many instances.

  • Day Pass
    • $18 Pittsburgh | $16 Youngstown
    • Discount/Senior/Student $15 | $14
    • Club Pass $10
  • 12 Punch Pass
    • $180 Pittsburgh | $150 Youngstown
    • Discount/Senior/Student $150 | $140

BUY NOW

Rental Prices

A complete line of rental equipment will be maintained for exclusive use inside the facility. This ensures that you can climb with the proper equipment if you do not own gear or if you are visiting Pittsburgh. If this is your first visit to ASCEND, shoes are on us!

*All rental rates are subject to tax*

  • Climbing Shoes $5
  • Chalk Bag $2
  • Harness and Belay Equipment $5
  • Gear Rental Package $10
  • Monthly Gear Rental Package $30 (must have membership)
  • Monthly Locker Rental $20 (must have membership)
Individual Memberships
$68/mo.*
  • Unlimited climbing at all ASCEND facilities
  • Unlimited yoga and fitness classes
  • Free entry for new ASCEND guests (one per day)
  • 10% off most retail and concession items
  • Workshop and event discounts
  • Monthly Mega Member Perks (details below)

Monthly Add-ons

  • Unlimited Gear Rental +$30/mo.
  • Permanent Locker Storage +$20/mo.

*$89/mo if not auto-renewing (EFT) | $79/mo for Discount/Senior/Youth
*A $5 setup fee will be applied to prorated dues.

BUY NOW

Household EFT Membership
Two for $120 + $40 per

A Household EFT Membership is a great way to save a little and get a lot! Household memberships are a one-size-fits-all membership, where pricing is based on head-count rather than age or discount status, and where one person will serve as the responsible billing party. We do not require proof of household status.

NOTE: Current EFT Members who wish to transfer to a Household EFT Membership must do so at the front desk (cannot be done online). New members, please use the button below or visit the front desk.

Account Management

Managing your account is painless and easy. Just head over to our account management page and let us know what you need to update and we'll take care of the rest.

Monthly Mega Member Perks

Introducing MONTHLY MEGA MEMBER PERKS! In addition to the standard benefits, ASCEND members may now take advantage of some really incredible perks. We will announce the perk each month on social media and post information at our front desks. You can become a member at anytime during the month to take advantage of the perk!

Perks could include, but are definitely not limited to:

  • Retail discounts
  • Guest passes (not just new visitors)
  • FREE stuff (like chalk, food, or swag)
  • Member referral incentives
  • Custom merchandise opportunities
  • Resole discount
Additional Pricing Information
  • Day Pass is good for literally the ENTIRE DAY, but only where purchased.
  • A Day Pass includes your choice of a yoga or fitness class (at facilities where offered) - Child Day Pass excluded.
  • The member perk "free entry for new ASCEND guests (one per day)" only applies to guests who have never been to any ASCEND location before. 
  • Affiliate Discounts: ASCEND is happy to offer a 10% discount on most admission and memberships to the following groups: college students, seniors (60+), first responders (EMT, military, law enforcement, fire, etc), health care workers, teachers, ECP, AMRG, AMGA, PCGI, AAC, Access Fund + SWPACC, Venture Outdoors, Bike PGH, AmeriCorps, and the National Ski Patrol. Discount will be applied once proof of affiliation has been shown to a staff member in-store at ASCEND and cannot be retroactively applied to dues already billed to your account. Discounts DO NOT apply to prorated EFT dues! Periodic proof of eligibility for a discounted membership and other discounts will be required, and requested via email only. Failure to provide proof of discount eligibility will result in non-discount dues and rates being assessed. This is not considered an increase in dues and does not require 60 days written notice, although reasonable notice will be given.
  • Senior: 60+ | Student: under 17 or college: 10% off of day passes, 12 punch passes, and membership.
  • Locker rental only applies to ASCEND Pittsburgh.
  • Climbing Industry Employees: Do you work at another climbing facility or in the climbing industry? Get a Day Pass for contributing $5 to ASCEND's Equity + Outreach Fund. All we ask is that you demonstrate reasonable proof and give us a high-five!
  • Homeschool Program: Check in M-F, 10a-2p. $10 youth, $12 adult. Must visit as a family and show proof of homeschooling.
  • Punch Passes are non-transferrable, but you are able to use the passes to treat family and friends to a day of climbing if they accompany you!
  • Gift cards make great gifts!
  • How do auto-renewing (EFT) memberships work?
    Dues are automatically deducted from your checking account or billed to your credit card each month. Dues, no more than one month at a time and no more than one month in advance, can be prepaid cash, credit, or gift card, but at the non-EFT membership rate. For an auto-renewing membership to be cancelled or frozen, you must inform us at least 1 day prior (24 hours or more) to the next billing date (we bill on the 1st of each month).
  • May I place my membership on hold?
    Absolutely - ASCEND allows EFT Members to freeze their memberships. Freezes must start on the first day of the month and thaws must occur on the last day of a month. To freeze your membership, you must submit this form at least 1 day prior (24 hours or more) to the freeze date to ensure that you will not be billed for the next month. You must also indicate a thaw date, which is the date on which you want EFT billing to restart, and this date may only be at most 12 months in the future. Upon restarting a frozen membership, the membership will continue through at least the end of the next month following that date. It then continues indefinitely until cancelled or changed.
Store

ASCEND’s retail stores is regularly stocked with soft and hard goods from the industry’s leading brands. Offerings may vary, but you can always expect a wide range of climbing shoes, chalk and chalk bags, brushes, crash pads, harnesses, ropes, draws, carabiners, belay devices and other accessories. Consult with any of ASCEND’s knowledgeable staff members for advice, to check on availability, or to place a special order. We'll even resole your shoes!

Brands include Petzl, Evolv, La Sportiva, Butora, Neon Climbing, Organic Climbing, Flashed, and more!

Need to get your shoes resoled? Let ASCEND help make the process hassle free. Orders ship the first Monday of every month and are expected back within 3-6 weeks. Prices can vary from $30 - $90, depending on make, model, condition, and preference. See front desk for more details.

VISIT ONLINE GEAR STORE

Parties + Groups

Experiencing ASCEND with a group of friends or family is one of the best ways to introduce yourself to the wonderful activity of climbing! Parties and groups at ASCEND come in all shapes and sizes, so no matter what you have in mind, we can likely make it happen. See below for your options and start booking your event right away!

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

  • All parties and groups include:
    • all rental equipment
    • ample space to host your group's decorations, belongings, food, beverage (no alcohol), limited refrigerator and freezer space
    • two hours of professional instruction, education, safety, and of course... good times!
  • Standard maximum number of active participants (does not include spectators, like guardians or chaperones):
    • Pittsburgh = 15
    • Youngstown = 10
  • We are currently booking parties and groups 4 weeks or more in advance.
  • Standard availability varies between facilities.
  • Pricing varies depending on the facility and the group size, and comes in blocks of 1-5, 6-10, or 11-15.
  • Additional participants above your pricing block will be $40 per person. Bringing more than a couple extra people on the day of your event is strongly discouraged, because your event will be short-staffed, which may result in certain activites being modified.
  • Full payment must be made to confirm your booking.

If you would like to inquire about booking sooner, seek a different day or time, or book for more than the maximum number of participants allowed, please complete our SPECIAL EVENT REQUEST FORM. We will do our best to accommodate your request, but it is not guaranteed. The more time we have to prepare the higher likelihood that a request may be met!

NOTES

    • There are no age restrictions to climb at ASCEND, however children 13 and under must be directly supervised by attentive chaperones at a 1:3 ratio. But if you book a group with us, we've got the supervision covered!
    • Discounts may be extended to non-profit groups, depending on time, number of participants, and other special circumstances. Inquire via our SPECIAL EVENT REQUEST FORM.
    • A signed waiver is required for anyone entering the facility, even adults, younger children, or babies who are purely spectating. Participants 17 and under must have their waiver completed by a legal guardian.

LARGE + CUSTOM EVENTS

Whether it’s a bachelorette party, company team-building, or a college orientation ASCEND prefers to treat each event uniquely. If you desire more than what we've listed above, just let us know what you're thinking and we'll work together to design your perfect event!

SPECIAL EVENT REQUEST FORM

Amenities

So you want to know more about what ASCEND offers? Here’s a quick and simple list of just some of the amenities you can look forward to:

ASCEND Pittsburgh

  • 3 unique, enormous, 16 foot tall boulders, with varying terrain that is suitable for all climbers, from beginners to elite athletes
  • 24 foot tall top-rope pillar with 20 rope stations and auto belays
  • Climbing training equipment that includes: an super-sized woody wall, moon board, and campus wall, diverse hang boards and grips, pull-up stations, and more!
  • Fitness area: cardio machines, free weights, kettle bells, benches and squat racks, cross-training equipment, slacklines, and more!
  • Yoga studio with full schedule and diverse class offerings
  • Retail area including climbing gear, food, and beverages
  • Mezzanine level with expansive viewing area
  • Kitchenette and lounge available to everyone
  • Easy access hand-washing and water bottle refill stations
  • Locker rooms with showers and foot washing stations
  • Accessible shower and toilet facilities and locker rooms
  • Captivating views stretching from Oakland to Downtown Pittsburgh

ASCEND Youngstown

  • 2 large, 16 foot tall boulders, with varying terrain that is suitable for all climbers, from beginners to elite athletes
  • Climbing training equipment that includes: adjustable Tension Board, adjustable spray wall, hangboard station
  • Fitness area: cardio machines, free weights, kettle bells, benches and squat racks, cross-training equipment, slacklines, and more!
  • Yoga studio with diverse class offerings
  • Retail area including climbing gear, snacks, and beverages
  • Lounge space available to everyone
  • Easy access hand-washing and water bottle refill stations
  • A supremely chill vibe
Rules

Rules?! There are no rules in climbing, right? Well kind of. So here are ASCEND's:

  • Food, beverages, and sharp objects must stay off the bouldering pads.
  • Street shoes and bare feet are not permitted on climbing walls.
  • Sober climbing is the best climbing - do not climb while intoxicated.
  • All climbers and visitors must complete a liability waiver before entering ASCEND.
  • Climbers 13 and under must be directly supervised by an adult.
  • You must be at least 14 to be in the fitness and training areas or to take a regularly scheduled climbing, fitness, or yoga class.
  • There is only one wall you can end up on the top of: the top-out wall!
  • Belaying requires approval from ASCEND staff.
  • Climbing shoes are not permitted in the bathrooms. Gross!
  • Climbing flooring is for falling - not walking, sitting, or horsing around.
  • Use caution when using the climbing walls and fitness equipment - this is not a jungle gym!

Etiquette schmettiquette! But seriously, let's keep everyone happy and healthy.

  • This is a safe space. Everyone deserves respect and compassion.
  • Pay attention! Other climbers may be above you or waiting to climb behind you.
  • Shirts are required - we promise to keep it cool.
  • Only spot when asked and/or trained to do so.
  • Politely ask before telling someone how to climb - figuring out the beta is half the challenge!
  • Gender does not determine skill or strength. Don't assume.
  • Keep your wet and muddy shoes away from the climbing areas.
  • Chalk belongs in your bag and on your hands.
  • Clean up after yourself - put away fitness equipment - wipe down machines.

Please keep in mind: Failure to adhere to the Rules & Etiquette of ASCEND can lead to the suspension of climbing and facility access privileges.

Youth Rules and Tips: Kids LOVE and EXCEL at climbing, especially bouldering. Unfortunately, they sometimes view it as a jungle gym when in reality it is quite the opposite! We want kids to have fun, but our guests' safety is our top-priority. This is why we will strictly enforce the DIRECT SUPERVISION of any kids 13 and under. While supervising, please remember the following rules. Please help us take safety seriously.

  • No running on or off the pads, but especially on the pads.
  • Pads are only for climbing and falling on. Do not jump around, chase anyone, or perform gymnastics.
  • Approach the intended climb from directly in front of the start. Do not walk on the pads to your next climb. Simply said, get on, climb, then get off.
  • Give other climbers at least 15 feet of space and only one climber per route.
  • The downclimb is only for getting off of the orange top out boulder.
  • Keep chalk socks inside chalk bags. Never throw chalk socks or anything else.
  • Fitness, cardio, and training areas are off limits for those 13 and under.
  • NEVER walk underneath a climber. This could result in injury or death and is the most important thing that you will read on this entire website!

If these rules are not followed, we reserve the right to ask you to leave.

FAQs
What is ASCEND?

ASCEND is Pittsburgh’s premier indoor rock climbing facility. We offer climbing, fitness, yoga, classes, group events, memberships, and other services. ASCEND's retail shop will provide climbers of all abilities with a wide variety of climbing gear.

I have never climbed before. Do I need any previous experience to participate?

Absolutely not! First-timers and experienced climbers coexist and learn from each other. Bouldering - which is mostly what we offer - has no pre-reqs and you can be climbing within minutes of arrival. For those looking to climb on ropes, we also have auto belays and ropes, with classes designed to teach you rope skills and climbing movement.

What should I wear to climb?

Athletic clothing is advised, but you’ll see climbers in jeans too! Climbing shoes are required, but if you don’t have your own pair, we have them to rent. If this is your first visit to ASCEND, shoes and a chalk bag are on us!

Your website says that the facility has auto belays. What are auto belays?

The auto belay is a device that slowly lowers the climber to the ground in the event of a fall. Auto belays allow individuals who have not been through a belay check-off the opportunity to climb the rope walls in the facility. They are also a great option for climbers who are visiting the facility without a partner. No experience is necessary, but a brief tutorial is required to use the auto belay.

Where are you located, and what are your hours?

We are located in Pittsburgh’s South Side neighborhood at 2141 Mary Street (15203). For maps, directions, and hours of operation, see our location and hours below.

Is parking available at your facility?

Yes, free parking is available in two off-street lots located directly adjacent to ASCEND and at the corner of Jane and 23rd Streets (the “Rite Aid lot”). Street parking is also available near the facility.

May I place my membership on hold?

Absolutely! We call it a "freeze", and head over to our Membership Management page to get started. 

How tall are the walls at ASCEND?

ASCEND has five separate walls, each one featuring different angles and heights ranging from 13 to 24 feet.

Do I need to sign a waiver or release form?

Yes, every participant and visitor must sign a liability waiver in order to enter our facility. Individuals under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign for them.

Do I need to sign a new waiver each time I visit?

No, this form only needs to be filled out once and maybe periodically over time. The facility will keep a copy of your waiver on file.

How much does it cost to climb?

ASCEND offers monthly memberships, 12 punch passes, and day passes. Find out more information in our "Rates" section above.

Are there any age restrictions or requirements at your facility?

There are no age restrictions to climb, however, climbers 13 and under must be directly supervised by an adult. You must be 14 or older to be in the fitness and training areas or to take a regularly scheduled yoga class. Note: Groups of five or more youth participants (17 & under) must make a reservation. In many instances, we require ASCEND Coaches to be present during youth groups.

I don’t have my own equipment. Does your facility provide or rent equipment?

Yes, ASCEND rents shoes, chalk, harnesses, and belay hardware. If it's your first time here, shoes and chalk are on us. Check our "Rates" section above for detailed pricing.

What is belaying?

Belaying is the act of safely managing the rope for the climber. The belayer is responsible for the climber’s safety as he or she ascends the wall. In the event of a fall, the belayer secures the climber by holding the rope. In order to belay in the facility, an ASCEND team member must verify your ability to belay correctly.

What type of belay device may I use?

ASCEND strives to embrace industry practices, which in climbing, involves generational trends that change over time.

One such change is rock climbing belay devices. While the history of climbing has experienced a variety of changes in belay techniques over time, the most recent transition has been one from unassisted braking devices to assisted braking devices. In the past, methods such as the Munter Hitch or tube-style belay devices were the standard, however, it is ASCEND's belief that the climbing industry and community would be best served by standard adoption of assisted braking belay devices in the vast majority of indoor climbing circumstances.

As such, effective 1/1/2023, ASCEND requires use of an assisted braking belay device in its roped climbing facilities and provides comprehensive instruction, sale, and rental of these devices.

Recommended assisted braking belay devices:

  • Petzl GriGri
  • Edelrid Jul
  • Black Diamond Pilot
  • Mammut Smart
Do you have climbing options for children?

The climbing facility is suitable for all ages. We offer party packages, programs, and other activities for children. In addition, our climbing walls are designed for individuals of all ages and skill levels. For more information, please go HERE.

How can I work at ASCEND?

We promise you'll have fun and feel fulfilled working at ASCEND. To get started, visit this page.

How often will the problems and routes get changed?

Boulder problems and top-rope routes will be stripped and reset on an ongoing basis with the entire facility being reset over a 6-8 week period. There will always be something new for our members to be excited about.

May I use an ASCEND gift card to purchase a membership?

Yes! You may use an ASCEND gift card to purchase anything at ASCEND, in store only. Apologies that this service is not available online at this time. Additionally, you may apply your gift card toward your EFT membership dues, no more than one month at a time and no more than one month in advance, but at the non-EFT membership rate.

What if I have a large group, but don't want to book a party?

That's okay! You're more than welcome to stop in whenever suits you best. That being said, we'd love a heads up so that we are able to provide the best customer service possible. If you're up for it, please send us a message or give us a call to let us know your group's size and what day and time you'll be in.